Systems and methods for facilitating group activities

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user&#39;s performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user&#39;s goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/846,414 to Gilley et al., filed on Sep. 21, 2006 (referred to belowas “the incorporated provisional patent application”), the entirety ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference.

This also is related to:

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0086318 to Gilley et al.,filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “LIFESTYLE COMPANION SYSTEM,” (referredto herein as “the incorporated LIFESTYLE COMPANION document”), theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference;

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0077620 to Gilley et al.,filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDINGAUDIO AND VISUAL CUES VIA A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” (referred toherein as “the incorporated AUDIO AND VISUAL CUES document”), theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference;

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0076637 to Gilley et al.,filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “DYNAMICALLY ADAPTIVE SCHEDULINGSYSTEM,” (referred to herein as “the incorporated ADAPTIVE SCHEDULINGSYSTEM document”), the entirety of which is incorporated herein byreference;

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0077881 to Gilley et al.,filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “VARIABLE I/O INTERFACE FOR PORTABLEMEDIA DEVICE,” (referred to herein as “the incorporated VARIABLE I/Odocument”), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference;

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0077489 to Gilley et al.,filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “REWARDS SYSTEMS,” (referred to hereinas “the incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document”), the entirety of whichis incorporated herein by reference; and

U.S. patent application Publication No. 2008-0076972 to Dorogusker etal., filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled “INTEGRATED SENSORS FOR TRACKINGPERFORMANCE METRICS,” (referred to herein as “the incorporatedINTEGRATED SENSORS document”), the entirety of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention can generally relate to a lifestyle companionsystem. More particularly, the present invention can relate to a systemthat coordinates multiple corridors of experiences in a person's life.

Conventional systems typically focus only on one aspect of a person'sexperiences. Conventional systems typically do not intelligentlyintegrate multiple aspects of a person's experiences. For example, atypical piece of software may be implemented to measure a user's heartrate during an exercise routine. But, that software typically cannotcoordinate the heart rate information to the user's general fitnessgoals, nor intelligently use that information to assist the user inreaching his goals.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a system that can bridgenumerous corridors of experiences in a person's life and coordinate themfor maximum efficiency and enjoyment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a lifestylecompanion system can be provided for coordinating multiple corridors ofa user's life. The lifestyle companion system can include devices andmethods for providing a platform for conducting user interviews,suggesting activities and references based on interview responses,providing a platform for a user to schedule activities, collecting dataabout a user during performance of activities or throughout the user'sday, and/or providing progress reports. The method also can includeassigning user category levels (e.g., activity levels) based oninterview responses. In some embodiments of the present invention, thelifestyle companion system can coordinate a user's fitness, nutrition,and medical experiences.

The lifestyle companion system can integrate user-selectable plug-inmodules that are focused on specialized topics. For example, plug-inmodules can be specialized for particular periods in a child'sdevelopment, students, expectant parents, new parents, seniors, specificsports enthusiasts, food connoisseurs, geographical regions, healthconditions, holidays, etc. Each module can have coordinatingquestionnaires, suggested activities, suggested references,instructions, logging tools, audiobooks, videos, podcasts and othertypes of activities or information tailored for the specialty of themodule.

In one embodiment of the present invention, user data can be collectedusing a tracking device that stores the data itself or transmits thedata to a local server, a central server, a server dedicated to storageof user profile information, or any combination thereof. Trackingdevices can include passive tracking devices that require the userand/or another authorized entity to manually enter user data, activetracking devices having sensors that automatically gather data about theuser and/or activities performed by the user, or any combinationthereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, sensors of theactive tracking devices can be attached to the user (e.g., in clothingor accessories) or disposed in equipment used by the user.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the tracking device also canprovide a user interface for the user to, e.g., access the user'sprofile. Information stored in the user's profile can include medicalinformation, the user's goals and progress towards the goals, referenceinformation, activity information, the user's responses to the userinterview, and any other information related to the user's interactionwith the lifestyle companion system. Activity information can include,for example, media files and adjustable parameters associated with anactivity.

In one embodiment of the present invention, media (e.g., audio and/orvisual) cues can be provided to the user during the user's performanceof activities. Audio and visual cues can include, for example,instructions for the activity, feedback on a user's progress,motivational feedback, and/or entertainment information. The media cuescan be played at predetermined points during an activity, based onperformance metrics, or at the initiation of the user. Visual cues caninclude graphical information (e.g., text, still images, and/or videos).

In one embodiment of the present invention, a user's short-term and/orlong-term goals and activities can be dynamically adapted in response todata collected about the user. The data can include that collectedduring a user's performance of an activity (e.g., performance metrics),and/or collected about the user throughout the user's day.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can be used to coordinate group activities. Each person in thegroup can be provided with a tracking device to facilitate theirperformance of predetermined group activities. A common activity file orcomplementary activity files can be loaded onto each of the trackingdevices and, in one embodiment of the present invention, synchronized bya synchronization signal. Audio and visual cues can be provided to theusers in response to each user's own performance metrics or theperformance metrics of other group members. Data can be collected abouteach user's performance, individually and as a group. Responsive to suchdata, the lifestyle companions system can adjust current or futureactivities of each user and/or the group.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other advantages of the present invention will be apparentupon consideration of the following detailed description, taken inconjunction with accompanying drawings, in which like referencecharacters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart for implementing a lifestyle companionsystem in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates hardware for the lifestyle companion system inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness welcomescreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a current fitnesslevel screen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitnessinterest screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness goalsscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitnessschedule screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness summaryscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a health historyscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a workout reviewscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an alternativeworkout review screen with a repetition feature in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a user workoutcomposition screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a user workoutcomposition screen having a media playlist menu in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14-21 show illustrative graphic user interfaces during playback ofa workout compilation on a portable electronic device in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative fitness system for facilitating collectionof data about a user's fitness performance and adaptation of a fitnessactivity based on the collected data in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 23A shows an illustrative progress report in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23B shows a portion of the illustrative progress report of FIG. 23Aafter it is adapted based on the user's performance metrics inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 shows an illustrative flow chart for facilitating synchronousgroup activities in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 25 shows an illustrative flow chart for implementing a nutritionprogram with the lifestyle companion system in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention can include a lifestyle companion system forcoordinating multiple corridors of a user's life. The lifestylecompanion system can intelligently recommend lifestyle choices andactivities based on information and data collected about the user. Asdescribed in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 1, the lifestylecompanion system can provide a platform for conducting user interviews,suggest activities and references based on interview responses, providea platform for a user to schedule activities, collect data about a userduring performance of activities or throughout the user's day, and/orprovide progress reports. The system also can assign user categorylevels (e.g., activity levels) based on interview responses. Responsiveto the data collected about the user, the lifestyle companion system canadjust or adapt a user's goals or activities.

FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart for implementing a lifestyle companionsystem in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Instep 100, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform forconducting user interviews.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can request that the user input information about the user'sphysical and mental health. Physical health information can includeinformation about the medications the user is taking, the user'sphysical limitations, illnesses, medical conditions (e.g., pregnancy),and/or risk factors. A health interview also can address nutrition,weight, breathing metrics (e.g., breaths per minute or some otherrelated metric), relaxation and/or sleep. Interview questions aboutnutrition and weight can address weight goals and the user's currentnutritional habits. Interview questions about illnesses and medicalconditions can address, e.g., sexually transmitted diseases, allergiesand sinus problems, asthma, arthritis, conditions related to the brainand nervous system, cancer, cerebral palsy, chronic diseases, chronicpain, diabetes, fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches and migraines, heartdisease and cardiovascular issues, infections, joints and muscleproblems, liver conditions, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease,respiratory conditions, surgery recovery, or any other medicalcondition.

Interview topics also can be gender or age specific. A women's healthinterview can address, for example, menopause, pregnancy, fertility,etc. A men's health interview can address, e.g., fertility, impotence,prostate concerns, etc. A children's health interview can be dividedinto sub-categories, e.g., issues related to infants and toddlers,children, and teenagers.

A mental health interview can address, for example, anxiety, caregivingand coping, depression, and/or drug & alcohol addiction.

The lifestyle companion system also can interview the user aboutnon-health related topics, e.g., spirituality/religion, identity (e.g.,sense of belonging), relationships, career, financial condition,environment, hobbies, interests, other personal information, and goalsregarding the same. An identity (sense of belonging) interview mayaddress, for example, the organizations to which the user belongssocially and/or professionally. A relationships interview can address,for example, the marital and/or familial status of the user. Therelationship interview also can address the quality of the user'srelationships with his/her family. A career interview can address, forexample, the length of time the user has worked in the present job, theuser's current occupational position, and/or the user's level ofenjoyment of the user's occupation. A finance interview can address, forexample, net wealth, credit situation, spending habits, etc. Anenvironment interview can address, for example, the user's home, office,clothing, transportation, fitness memberships, access to exerciseequipment, etc.

Once the user completes the user interview provided in step 100, thelifestyle companion system can establish a user profile for the userbased on the user's interview responses. As the user's lifestyle changes(e.g., the user's goals change or the user's familial status changes),this profile can be updated by the user at a later date by changingresponses to the interview questions. In response to updates to the userprofile, the lifestyle companion system can alter the activities,references, and plug-in modules suggested (e.g., as described below withrespect to step 104) and/or adapt the user's goals or scheduledactivities (e.g., as described below with respect to step 112).

The user profile also can store user-associated information generated bythe lifestyle companion system in later steps. For example, the userprofile can store information related to categories to which the user isassigned in step 102, activities and references suggested by thelifestyle companion system in step 104, activities created by the userin step 105, data collected about the user in step 110, and/or rewardsdistributed to the user in step 111. The user profile can storeinformation about activities in activity files. In one embodiment, anactivity file can include, for example, adjustable parameters associatedwith an activity, media files associated with the activity for providingmedia cues to the user, and any other information related to theactivity.

In step 101, the lifestyle companion system can supplement the user'sprofile with data from profiles of user-authorized entities (e.g.,relatives, doctor, therapist, fitness trainer, etc.). For example, theuser profile can be supplemented with data from the profiles of familymembers so that the lifestyle companion system can suggest medicalactivities (e.g., exams) and references in step 104 based on a moreaccurate profile of potential genetic health risks. The user's profilealso can be supplemented with data from the profiles of workout partnersso that the lifestyle companion system can suggest, for example, fitnessactivities that are appropriate for the user and his workout partners.The user's profile also can be supplemented with the profiles of diningpartners so that the lifestyle companion system can suggest, forexample, nutritional activities (e.g., recipes, restaurants, etc.) thatare appropriate for the user and his dining partners. Illustrativenutrition-based applications of the present invention are described ingreater detail with respect to FIG. 25.

As used herein, an entity is authorized by the user when the user hasgranted the entity permission to obtain information from the user'sprofile or transfer information into the user's profile. For example,user-authorized entities can include a family member, employer, physicaltherapist, psychologist, doctor, physical trainer, coach, etc.

In step 102, the lifestyle companion system can assign or associatecertain categories to the user profile based on the user's responses tothe interview. For example, based on the user's responses to fitnessquestions, the lifestyle companion system can assign an activity levelto the user's profile, e.g., beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Basedon the assigned activity level, the lifestyle companion system can latersuggest fitness activities in step 104 that are more suited to thefitness category assigned to the user profile, and, thus, more suited tothe capabilities of the user.

In step 104, the lifestyle companion system can suggest activities forthe user based on the user's responses to the user interview, eitherdirectly or indirectly (e.g., based on the category level assigned instep 102). For example, if a user provides information about alcoholaddiction in the interview, the lifestyle companion system can limitsuggestions to activities that may be alcohol-related and/or providesuggestions to alternatives to alcohol-related activities. If a userindicates in the interview that he/she is a single parent, the lifestylecompanion system can provide suggestions of activities to accommodatethese circumstances, such as more nutritious “eating out” optionsinstead of time-consuming home food preparation. If a user indicates inthe interview that he is diabetic, the lifestyle companion system cansuggest food choices that accommodate a low-sugar, low-carbohydratediet. If a user inputs into the system that he/she has an asthmacondition, the system can suggest hobbies or jobs in arid andpollution-free areas.

In step 104, the lifestyle companion system also can suggest referencesfor the user to consult based directly or indirectly on the user'sinterview responses. For example, the lifestyle companion system canprovide information and/or website links to specialized counselors,support groups, or specialized organizations that are tailored to theconditions indicated by the user's interview responses.

The lifestyle companion system can provide access to one or more of thesuggested references via a personal webpage customized for the user. Thepersonal webpage also can include a journal, blog, or secure data vaultin which the user can store highly sensitive data that can be accessed,e.g., via the internet by any entity authorized by the user. The securedata vault can be compartmentalized by topics, e.g., medical andalternative therapy records, family health conditions, financialinformation, travel documents, etc. The personal webpage also can permita user to store any other information in a data repository.

In step 104, the lifestyle companion system also can suggest plug-inmodules based directly or indirectly on the user's interview responses.Plug-in modules can contain information tailored for a specializedtopic. For example, the modules can be specialized for particularperiods in a child's development, students, expectant parents, newparents, seniors, specific sports enthusiasts, food connoisseurs,geographical regions, health conditions, themed or seasonal projects,mental wellness, life satisfaction assessment and goal setting, etc.

In one embodiment of the present invention, plug-in modules can beco-branded by third parties (e.g., content partners). For example, formodules tailored to food connoisseurs, the information contained in themodule can be provided and co-branded by the Food Network.

Each module can have coordinating questionnaires, suggested activities,suggested references, instructions, logging tools, podcasts and othertypes of activities or information tailored for the specialty of themodule.

The suggested modules can be offered to a user free of charge or forpurchase, e.g., from a media management and distribution server similarto that offered under the trademark iTunes™ by Apple Inc. of Cupertino,Calif.

Once a user selects desired plug-in modules, the modules can beinstalled into a user's lifestyle companion system. For those modulescontaining specialized questionnaires, the lifestyle companion systemcan return to step 100 to continue the user interview using thespecialized questionnaire.

The lifestyle companion system also can be pre-loaded with one or moreplug-in modules, permit a user to search for and download specificmodules from a database, permit a user to directly identify and downloada plug-in module offered by a user-authorized entity, and/or permituser-authorized entities to download modules into the user profile.

In one embodiment of the present invention, in step 104, the lifestylecompanion system can provide a selection of activities, references, andplug-in modules from which the user can choose. That selection canthemselves be selected from a predetermined list of activities,references, and plug-in modules provided or pre-approved by the user ora user-authorized entity.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem also can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modulesbased on other information stored in the user's profile, e.g., data thesystem collects about the user in step 110. For example, if thelifestyle companion system collects data about the user that indicatesthe user is in poor physical shape, the lifestyle companion can suggestless physically-active activities for the user in step 104, irrespectiveof the level of fitness the user indicates in the user interview of step100. The lifestyle companion system also can suggest activities that auser has not performed over a predetermined amount of time or that auser has not performed satisfactorily, as indicated by the datapreviously collected in accordance with step 110.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can suggest activities based on a pseudo-random protocol. Thelifestyle companion system can randomly suggest activities within acertain category. For example, the system can randomly suggest fitnessactivities adapted to the same muscle group or type of exercise.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can suggest activities based on the frequency in which the userhas performed the activities. For example, the system can suggestactivities that the user has not performed over a predetermined amountof time. The system also can suggest activities that the user frequentlyschedules based on the assumption that the user enjoys those activitiesmore.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can select suggested activities, references, and plug-in modulesfrom a database. The database can be stored, for example, in a centralserver, local server, or a portable electronic device, as discussed ingreater detail below with respect to FIG. 2.

In step 105, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform forthe user to create activities. This can include providing a platform forthe user to download activities created by a third party into the user'sprofile. Third parties can include user-authorized entities (e.g., theuser's doctor, personal fitness trainer, physical therapist, friend,family member, real estate agent, financial advisor, etc.) and/orcompanies that offer themed and/or branded activities or compilationsthereof (e.g., gyms, television networks, diet plans, nutrition-orientedcompanies, etc.). The third party activities can be can be offered to auser free of charge or for purchase, e.g., from a media management anddistribution server similar to iTunes™.

Activities created by the user also can include customizations ofactivities suggested by the lifestyle companion system in step 104,customizations of activities created by third parties, activities theuser creates from scratch, or compilations of activities that aresuggested, customized, or otherwise created by the user. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system canpermit a user to customize an activity by permitting the user to set thevalue of one or more adjustable parameters associated with the activity.Adjustable parameters of an activity are discussed in greater detailbelow. Once the user has completed creating activities, the user canshare these activities with user-authorized entities, e.g., the user'sdoctor, trainer, physical therapist, friend, etc.

In step 106, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform forthe user to schedule one or more activities. The lifestyle companionsystem can permit the user to choose from the activities suggested instep 104 or created or downloaded by the user in step 105. Activitiescreated or downloaded by the user can include activities that the usercreated or downloaded in step 105 or that the user has previouslycreated or downloaded, e.g., from previous sessions with the lifestylecompanion system.

In step 108, the lifestyle companion system can assist or motivate theuser during performance of activities by providing audio and/or visualcues, individually or simultaneously, that are related to theactivities. Audio and visual cues can include, for example, instructionsfor an activity, feedback on a user's progress, and/or motivationalfeedback. The cues can be pre-loaded or dynamically built based on auser's performance metrics, as determined from data collected in step110. The media cues can be intelligently mixed with entertainment media(e.g., music or video) the user is playing during performance of ascheduled activity. Visual cues can include text, still images, and/orvideos.

In one embodiment of the present invention, performance metrics caninclude metrics that track the amount or quality of a fitness activitythat a user has performed, physiological metrics or rate of changethereof, or any combination thereof.

The media cues can be played at predetermined points during an activity,at unscheduled points during an activity based on performance metrics,or at the initiation of the user. For example, when data collected aboutthe user's performance in step 110 indicates that a user has run his/herfastest mile, the lifestyle companion system can provide the user withaudio and/or visual cues indicating that he has achieved a personal bestand congratulating the user for reaching a particular performancemetric. In one embodiment of the present invention, the congratulatorycue can be in the form of a predetermined song or a predetermined videothat the user has earned through his performance.

In step 110, the lifestyle companion system can collect additional dataabout the user's performance of specific activities and/or throughoutthe user's day. User data can be collected using a tracking device thatstores the data itself or transmits the data to a local server, acentral server, a server dedicated to storage of user profileinformation, or any combination thereof. Tracking devices can includepassive tracking devices that require the user and/or another authorizedentity to manually enter user data, active tracking devices thatautomatically log data about the user and/or activities performed by theuser, or any combination thereof.

Active tracking devices for use with the methods and systems accordingto the invention can include any electronic device coupled to orincorporating sensors that can capture information about a user, e.g.,pedometers, devices having accelerometers, heart rate monitors,oximeters, location-tracking (e.g., GPS) devices, devices havingtemperature sensors, devices having heat flux sensors, electrocardiogramdevices, scales, glucometer devices, devices having activity trackingsensors, any other suitable tracking device useful for capturing dataabout a person's activities, any other suitable tracking device usefulfor capturing data about a person's physical or mental state, or anycombination thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, theactive tracking device can include a portable media device operativelycoupled to sensors attached to the user (e.g., in clothing oraccessories) or in equipment used by the user. The sensors and activetracking device also can be similar to those described in theincorporated INTEGRATED SENSORS document.

The data collected in step 110 can be stored and thereafter analyzed,for example, by analysis software, the user, or a user-authorizedentity. The data collected in step 110 also can be used by the lifestylecompanion systems in other steps of FIG. 1. For example, the lifestylecompanion system can change the category level assigned to a user instep 102 based on the collected data. The lifestyle companion systemalso can use the collected data to suggest activities, references,and/or plug-in modules in step 104. The lifestyle companion system alsocan use the collected data to determine when to provide audio and/orvisual cues to the user and the type or content of the cues, e.g., asdescribed with respect to step 108. The lifestyle companion system alsocan use the collected data to dynamically adapt a user's goals and/oractivities in step 112.

To motivate the user to perform the scheduled activities, the lifestylecompanion system also can use the collected data to distribute rewardsto the user in step 111, e.g., in accordance with the incorporatedREWARDS SYSTEMS document and the incorporated provisional patentapplication. For example, the lifestyle companion system can distributerewards to users based on the user's performance metrics (over a periodof time or during a single activity). Rewards can include monetaryrewards, rewards points that can be exchanged for merchandise orservices, access to features or activities, or any other rewarddescribed in the incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document and theincorporated provisional patent application.

Data collected in step 110 also can be stored and shared with authorizedentities, e.g., the user's personal fitness trainer, doctor, physicaltherapist, sports coach, etc.

In step 112, the lifestyle companion system can dynamically adapt theuser's short-term or long-term goals based on the data collected in step110. For example, if the collected data (e.g., sensor data) indicatesthat the user will not reach a target performance metric based on hisperformance during an individual workout (e.g., the number of caloriesburned), the lifestyle companion system can temporarily reduce thetarget performance metric to a level that is more attainable during theworkout in order to maintain the user's motivation. If the collecteddata indicates that the user will not reach his fitness goals based onhis performance over multiple workouts, the lifestyle companion systemcan adjust the user's long-term goals to a level that may be moreattainable for the user based on his past performance. Thus, a user'sgoals can be adapted either immediately or over time. In one embodimentof the present invention, a user's goals can be stored as goal data inthe user's profile and the present invention can adapt the user's goalsby adjusting the goal data.

In step 112, the lifestyle companion system also can dynamically adaptthe user's activities based on the data collected in step 110. Thelifestyle companion system can adjust a parameter of a current or futureactivity based on the collected data. For example, if the collected dataindicates that the user will not reach a target performance metric(e.g., target number of calories burned or target heart rate) during acurrent fitness activity, the lifestyle companion system can increasethe intensity or duration of the current fitness activity or a futurefitness activity. If the collected data indicates that the userexperienced activity levels over a predetermined period of time (e.g.,during one day or over a number of days) that are lower than recommendedor lower than that needed (e.g., to reach the user's weight loss goal),the lifestyle companion system can increase the level or intensity offuture workout(s). If the collected data indicates that the user willnot reach his fitness goals based on his performance over multipleworkouts, the lifestyle companion system can increase the intensity orfrequency of future workouts. Thus, a user's activities can be adaptedeither immediately or over time based on the collected data.

In step 114, the lifestyle companion system can provide the user withprogress reports based on the goals expressed by the user in the userinterview and the data collected about the user's activities. Progressreports can include information about the user's progress to date andtrends in the user's progress. The information can be provided in chartsand/or text. Progress reports also can include other information, e.g.,personalized bio-rhythm charts (with automatic feeds from localweather), women's menstrual cycle, food types eaten, etc. Suchfunctionality may allow a user to determine various patterns in theuser's life.

Although FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart having sequential steps, steps100-114 do not have to be performed in the sequence shown. For example,as described above, the lifestyle companion system can suggestactivities, references, and plug-in modules in step 104 based on datapreviously collected in accordance with step 110. Thus, one or moresteps 100-114 can be reiterated. The lifestyle companion system also canperform one or more steps simultaneously. For example, the lifestylecompanion system can simultaneously perform steps 108-112. In someembodiments of the present invention, some steps may be subsumed inother steps. For example, as described in greater detail below withrespect to FIG. 7, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platformfor a user to schedule activities during a user interview.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can communicate with (e.g., obtain information from or provideinformation to) third party resources that can operate independently ofthe lifestyle companion system. For example, since many lifestyleplanning and tracking activities revolve around timelines, the lifestylecompanion system can be integrated with a calendar program similar tothat offered under the trademark iCal™ by Apple Inc. Additionalintegrated programs also can include, for example, contacts lists, tasklists, and/or group calendaring programs that permit participants, suchas family members, to coordinate their respective schedules and exerciseroutines (e.g., MeetingMaker™ offered by PeopleCube of Waltham, Mass.).In one embodiment of the present invention, the task lists can includethemed information, e.g., reading lists. The lifestyle companion systemcan obtain information from, for example, automatic feeds from localmeteorological resources, food menus for restaurants, movie/theaterschedules, TV schedules, etc. The progress reports provided in step 114can be integrated into themed logs (e.g., food diary or pregnancy log),journals, and/or planning tools. In an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention, the lifestyle companion system can be configured tooffer one or more of these resources itself (i.e., without communicationwith independent third party resources).

FIG. 2 illustrates hardware for the lifestyle companion system inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Lifestylecompanion system 200 can include active tracking device 202 and centralserver 204. Tracking device 202 can incorporate electronic device 206and one or more sensors 208. Electronic device 206 can include acontroller, memory, first communication module 210 for receiving signalstransmitted from sensors 208, and second communication module 212 forcommunicating with central server 204 and/or a local server. In analternative embodiment of the present invention, first and secondcommunication modules 210 and 212 can be combined as one component.

The controller of electronic device 206 can be configured to perform oneor more of the steps described above with respect to FIG. 1. Forexample, the controller can be configured to accept sensor data fromsensors 208 via communication module 210, direct the sensor data to bestored as part of the user's profile in the memory, determine how toadapt a user's goals based on the sensor data and goal data stored inthe user's profile, and provide media cues to the user based on thesensor data and the adapted goals.

Sensors 208 can transmit data to first communication module 210 througha wire or by using a wireless communication protocol known in the art orotherwise. Sensors 208 can be attached to the user (e.g., in clothing oraccessories). Alternatively, sensors 208 can be disposed withinelectronic device 206 or another device utilized by the user (e.g.,fitness equipment described in greater detail below with respect to FIG.22). If sensors 208 are disposed only within electronic device 206, thetracking device may not need first communication module 210. In oneembodiment of the present invention, active tracking device 202 caninclude a portable media player similar to that sold under the trademarkiPod™ by Apple Inc., and a sensor/receiver kit similar to the Nike+iPodSport Kit sold by Apple Inc. and Nike, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, data from sensors208 can be transmitted directly or indirectly to central server 204 orlocal server 216. For example, sensors 208 can directly transmit itssignals to central server 204 and/or local server 216, in addition to orinstead of electronic device 206. Sensors 208 can indirectly transmitits signals to central server 204 and/or local server 216 usingelectronic device 206 as a conduit or through another conduit. If sensordata is transmitted indirectly through a conduit, the sensor data canundergo processing before it is transmitted to the central and/or localservers. As used herein, the term “sensor data” means any data directlygenerated by sensors 208 or any data derived from data directlygenerated by sensors 208.

In one embodiment of the present invention, central server 204 caninclude a controller, memory, and communication module 214. Thecontroller of central server 204 can perform one or more of the stepsdescribed above with respect to FIG. 1. A user may download datacollected about his activities from his active tracking devices 202 intocentral server 204. The memory of central server 204 can store theuser's data in his user profile. Communication modules 212 and 214 canbe configured to transmit signals between portable device 206 andcentral server 204 over a hard-wired or wireless network (e.g., theinternet). Controllers of electronic device 206 and central server 204can include one or more processors, ASICs, other types of circuits, orany combination thereof.

Lifestyle companion system 200 also can include local server 216, e.g.,a user's personal computer. Local server 216 can serve as anintermediary between active tracking device 202 and central server 204.In some embodiments of the present invention, a user may interact withcentral server 204 through local server 216. A controller of localserver 216 also can perform one or more of the steps described abovewith respect to FIG. 1. Thus, the process described above with respectto FIG. 1 can be executed by one or more of the controllers disposed intracking device 202, central server 204, and local server 216. Localserver 216 can communicate with active tracking device 202 and centralserver 204 using communication modules 218 and 220, which can becombined into one component.

User profiles can be stored in the respective memories of central server204, local server 216, and/or tracking device 202. For example, userprofile information can be stored in local server 216 for privacyreasons. User profile information also can be stored in central server204 to facilitate access thereto by multiple user authorized entities orby the user from different geographic regions. For example, in oneembodiment of the present invention, a user can authorize access of hisuser profile by the user's family member, employer, doctor, trainedtherapist or physical trainer, or other authorized entity. This canpermit these user-authorized entities to review information associatedwith the user's profile (e.g., data collected about the user'sactivities) and/or suggest activities, references, and/or plug-inmodules as described above with respect to step 104 of FIG. 1. Userprofile information also can be divided among device 202, central server204, and/or local server 216.

In one embodiment of the present invention, central server 204 canprovide a database from which the lifestyle companion system can selectactivities, references, and/or plug-in modules for suggestion to theuser in step 104 of FIG. 1. Central server 204 also can permit the userto download activities, references, and/or modules from the samedatabase and/or from a different database. Local server 216 can providethe platform for conducting the user interview and creating andscheduling user activities. This information, along with any media filesproviding audio and/or visual cues related to activities the userintends to perform, can be downloaded onto portable electronic device206. Portable electronic device 206, in turn, can instruct the user inperforming the activities. Advantageously, this can permit users tocarry their most important information, lists, schedules, etc. withthem. This also can permit a user to easily share such information withother authorized entities using, e.g., infra-red technology or viawireless or wired access to the internet or another type of network.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the central andlocal servers can be combined into one server. In another alternativeembodiment of the present invention, the central server, the localserver, and the portable electronic device can be combined into onedevice. For example, the portable electronic device can be configured toperform all the steps described with respect to FIG. 1.

In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 206 caninclude any portable, mobile, hand-held, or miniature consumerelectronic device. Illustrative electronic devices can include, but arenot limited to, music players, video players, still image players, gameplayers, other media players (e.g., an iPod™ sold by Apple Inc.), musicrecorders, video recorders, cameras, other media recorders, radios,medical equipment, calculators, cellular phones, other wirelesscommunication devices, personal digital assistances, programmable remotecontrols, pagers, laptop computers, printers, or combinations thereof.

Miniature electronic devices can have a form factor that is smaller thanthat of hand-held devices. Illustrative miniature electronic devices caninclude, but are not limited to, watches, rings, necklaces, belts,accessories for belts, headsets, accessories for shoes, virtual realitydevices, other wearable electronics, accessories for sporting equipment,accessories for fitness equipment, key chains, or combinations thereof.Incorporation of miniature, wearable devices into existing items can bedesirable because they require no additional effort by the user to usethem.

FIGS. 3-23 show an illustrative application of the lifestyle companionsystem of FIGS. 1-2 to a fitness module in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention. While FIGS. 3-23 illustrativelyrelate to a fitness module for the lifestyle companion system of thepresent invention, the systems and methods described herein can beapplied to any other plug-in modules, including the nutrition moduledescribed in greater detail with respect to FIG. 25.

FIG. 3 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness welcomescreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.Screen 300 can include user input section 302 in which a user can inputpersonal information and statistics as part of a user interview. Forexample, user input section 302 can include fields for the user's name,birth date, gender, and various bodily characteristics (e.g., weight,frame size, and a body fat metric). Other suitable fields also can beincluded on screen 300. Screen 300 also can include one or more links306 to websites or other functionalities, e.g., a body fat calculatorthat allows a user to determine their individual body fat metric.

Screen 300 also can include interview progress indicator 304, which canindicate the user's progress through the user interview. Interviewprogress indicator 304 also can include selectable tabs that permit auser to navigate to other parts of the user interview. For example, inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the selectable tabs can permit a user tonavigate to the parts of the fitness interview for user input of currentfitness level, user input of fitness interests, user input of fitnessgoals, user input of a preferred fitness schedule, or display of afitness summary.

FIG. 4 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a current fitnesslevel screen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.Current fitness level screen 400 can include various fields forobtaining information about the user's current physical abilities. Forexample, fields can include a user's current fitness level 402, activitylevel 404, or any other suitable indicator. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, fields 402 and 404 can have selectable menus ofpredetermined options. This can permit the lifestyle companion system todefine the predetermined options in instructional section 406 of screen400.

FIG. 5 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitnessinterest screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Fitness interest screen 500 can include selectable menu offitness interests 502, gym membership indicator field 504, and gymidentifier field 506. Gym identifier field 506 can permit the user toidentify the gym company and/or the specific branch of the gym that theuser visits most frequently.

FIG. 6 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness goalsscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.Fitness goals screen 600 can include a selectable menu of fitness goals602. Screen 600 also can have fields 604 in which a user can inputspecific values for one or more goals (e.g., the user's weight goals).In one embodiment, fields 604 can include fields for the user's currentweight, target weight, and target date on which the user would like toachieve his target weight. Fitness goals screen 600 also can includeinstructional section 606, in which the lifestyle companion system canprovide the user with graphic (e.g., text, still image and/or video)instructions and/or information related to the selectable menu 602 andfields 604.

FIG. 7 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitnessschedule screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Fitness schedule screen 700 can include menu of types offitness activities 702 and selectable daily schedule 704. This canpermit a user to identify the type of fitness activities the userprefers to undertake on each day of the week. This also can permit theuser to identify the day(s) of the week in which the user is unavailableor unwilling to perform a fitness activity. Again, screen 700 caninclude instructional section 706 for providing the user with graphicinstructions and/or information about the screen.

In one embodiment of the present invention, menu 702 can include fitnessactivity types suggested by the fitness module of the lifestylecompanion system based on the user's interview responses to user fitnessinterests and goals (FIGS. 5-6). Alternatively, the categories caninclude a generic list that is not customized to the user.

FIG. 8 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a fitness summaryscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Forexample, in section 802, fitness summary screen 800 can show a summaryof the types of fitness activities and the corresponding days the useridentified in fitness schedule screen 700 of FIG. 7. In section 804,fitness summary screen 800 also can show a summary of the user's weightstatistics (e.g., the user's current weight, the amount by which theuser is overweight, the user's target weight, and the date by which theuser wishes to achieve the target weight). The lifestyle companionsystem also can calculate a user's target daily calorie burn-rate andweekly weight loss target based on the user's interview responses, anddisplay that information in fitness summary screen 800 (e.g., in section804). Again, screen 800 can include instructional section 806 forproviding the user with instructions and/or information about thescreen.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can provide the user with the option to extend the user interviewinto additional interview functions, e.g., to compile the user's healthrecord. Additional interview functions can be part of advanced functionsof the fitness module or part of another plug-in module. For example, inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the interview function for compiling theuser's health record can be part of the fitness module or part of amedical module that also is installed in the lifestyle companion systemof the present invention. Thus, the lifestyle companion system of thepresent invention can seamlessly integrate multiple plug-in modules.

FIG. 9 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a health historyscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.Health history screen 900 can permit the user to identify medicalconcerns that, for example, can affect the user's ability to performfitness activities. Health history screen 900 can include selectablemenu 902 of health conditions that a user may have or have had. Healthhistory screen 900 also can have medication indication field 904 throughwhich the user can advise the lifestyle companion system of the presentstatus of medication the user is taking. If the user indicates that hecurrently is taking medication, screen 900 can be updated to permit theuser to input the name(s) of the medications the user is taking. Thelifestyle companion system then can link to an internal or externaldatabase that can provide information about side effects of themedication or warnings. For example, some medications caution againstincreased sensitivity to sunlight. Thus, the lifestyle companion systemmay suggest activities that reduce sun exposure.

FIG. 10 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a workout reviewscreen in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.Workout review screen 1000 can provide a platform through which thelifestyle companion system can permit a user to review a pre-compiledworkout compilation that is suggested by the lifestyle companion system,composed by a third party and downloaded by the user, or previouslycomposed by the user (e.g., as described in greater detail below withrespect to FIG. 12). Each pre-compiled workout compilation can have oneor more activities associated therewith. Thus, the lifestyle companionsystem of the present invention can select fitness activities forsuggestion to the user by selecting a pre-compiled workout compilation.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can provide a platform through which a user can purchasepre-compiled workout compilations from a central database of workoutcompilations (e.g., iTunes™). Those workout compilations can bechoreographed workouts from third parties (e.g., for specific fitnessfacilities). Third parties can include, for example, fitness contentpartners (e.g., Gold's Gym) or user-authorized entities (e.g., theuser's personal fitness trainer).

Workout review screen 1000 can include navigation section 1002 fornavigating among the user's different workout compilations. Screen 1000also can include compilation section 1004, in which building blocks 1006of the workout compilation can be graphically shown. Each building block1006 can represent an individual fitness activity or a rest timeactivity. As described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 12,each building block 1006 can be associated with adjustable fitnessparameters (or settings) preset by the lifestyle companion system (e.g.,based on the user's interview responses or based on default values) andadjusted by the user, e.g., in a manner described in greater detailbelow with respect to FIG. 12. The associated fitness parameters (orsettings) can include duration, intensity, equipment needed,repetitions, sets, any other suitable parameter (or setting) related toa fitness activity, or any combination thereof. Each building block 1006can provide one or more graphic representation of the associated fitnessactivity and/or the associated fitness parameters (or settings).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the workout compilationillustrated in FIG. 10 can be one that is suggested by the lifestylecompanion system based on a user's interview responses (e.g., aninterest in weight loss, an interest in walking, and no access tofitness facilities or equipment). The lifestyle companion system canselect the entire workout compilation from a database of pre-compiledworkout compilations based on the user's interview responses.Alternatively, the lifestyle companion system can select the workoutcompilation from the database and customize the adjustable fitnessparameters (or settings) of each building block based on the user'sinterview responses.

Alternatively, the lifestyle companion system can compose the workoutcompilation entirely based on the user's interview responses. Forexample, the lifestyle companion system can select each building block,arrange the order in which the user will be instructed to perform thefitness activities associated with the building blocks, and customizethe fitness parameters (or settings) associated with each building blockbased on the user's interview responses. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, the lifestyle companion system can select one or moreof the building blocks pseudo-randomly from a subset of a database ofactivities (e.g., a subset that includes activities that themselves areselected from the database based on the user's profile).

FIG. 11 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an alternativeworkout review screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Like workout review screen 1000, workout review screen 1100also can include compilation section 1104 in which building blocks 1102can be provided. Workout review screen 1100 also can include repetitionindicator 1106 and completion indicator 1108. Repetition indicator 1106can graphically indicate the number of times the workout compilation isencoded to instruct the user to repeat a set of fitness activities. Thefitness activities to be repeated can include those represented by thebuilding blocks spanned by the repetition indicator. In the embodimentof FIG. 11, the repeated fitness activities include jumping jacks,squats, and push-ups.

FIG. 12 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a user workoutcomposition screen in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Composition screen 1200 can provide a platform through whichthe lifestyle companion system can permit a user to (1) compose his ownworkout compilation, (2) customize suggested workout compilations andfitness activities, and/or (3) customize workout compilations andfitness activities composed by a third party.

Composition screen 1200 can include selectable menu 1202 of buildingblocks 1204. When composing a workout compilation, a user or otherauthorized entity can select building blocks 1204 of fitness activitiesfrom menu 1202 and arrange the selected building blocks in compilationsection 1206 in the order in which the workout compilation shouldinstruct the user to perform the selected fitness activities. In menu1202, fitness building blocks 1204 can be sorted according to theexercise type indicated by user-selectable field 1208, body area ormuscle group indicated by user selectable field 1210, and the phase ofthe workout compilation (e.g., warm-up, cool-down, etc.) indicated byfields 1212.

The fitness building blocks included in menu 1202 can include a defaultgroup of building blocks, selections culled from a database of buildingblocks based on the user's interview responses, or building blockssuggested by a third party that may or may not be authorized by theuser. For example, the building blocks included in menu 1202 can besuggested based on the user's fitness interests, preferred types offitness activities, availability of equipment at the gyms frequented bythe user, etc.

Each building block can be associated with one or more adjustablefitness parameters. By adjusting the fitness parameter(s) associatedwith a fitness activity, the fitness activity can be customized to theabilities and goals of a user. The fitness parameters (or settings)associated with each building block can have default values, valuessuggested by the lifestyle companion system based on the user's profile(e.g., the user's fitness or weight loss goals, the user's access tofitness facilities and equipment), or values suggested by a third partythat may or may not be authorized by the user.

The fitness parameters also can be set based on user-specified values.To permit a user to set one or more fitness parameters associated with afitness activity, screen 1200 also can incorporate instructional section1214, in which instructional fitness parameters 1216 are provided. Thelifestyle companion system can permit a user or other user authorizedentity to set one or more of the displayed instructional fitnessparameters by adjusting the value of the parameter shown ininstructional section 1214. Instructional section 1214 also can providegraphic instructions on how to perform the fitness activity associatedwith the selected building block. For example, instructional section1214 can provide textual instructions, still images, and/or aninstructional video.

FIG. 13 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a user workoutcomposition screen having a media entertainment playlist menu inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Compositionscreen 1300 can provide a platform through which the lifestyle companionsystem can permit a user to associate entertainment media playlists withindividual fitness activities and/or the entire workout compilation.Media entertainment playlists can include playlists of audio and/orvisual (e.g., still image or video) entertainment files. Thus, when theuser is exercising in accordance with the fitness activities associatedwith a workout compilation, the user can be entertained and motivated.

An entertainment playlist can include one or more media files. As usedherein, an entertainment playlist refers to one or more media filescontaining information that is unrelated to an activity that the userwill be directed to perform during playback of the entertainmentplaylist. For example, an entertainment playlist can include one or moremusic files, podcasts, music video files, TV show files, movie files,etc. In contrast, media files that instruct the user on performance ofan activity associated with a workout compilation are consideredinstructional files.

Composition screen 1300 can include entertainment playlist menu 1302.Entertainment playlist menu 1302 can include, for example, a user'siTunes™ playlist menu, a video menu, a photo menu, a song menu, apodcast menu, a radio station broadcast menu, or any combinationthereof. The user can select one or more entertainment playlists fromentertainment playlist menu 1302 and assign an energy rank to each ofthe selected entertainment playlists according to energy level of thecorresponding media tracks. The ranked entertainment playlists can bedisplayed in section 1304 of screen 1300. The entertainment playlistscan be manually assigned energy ranks by the user or automaticallyassigned energy ranks by the lifestyle companion system in accordancewith, for example, the tempo of songs in each entertainment playlist.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can suggest associations of entertainment playlists with fitnessactivities. For example, the lifestyle companion system can select oneor more playlists to associate with one or more fitness activities basedon the expected intensity of the activities and the energy ranks of theentertainment playlists.

During performance of an activity, one or more of the entertainmentplaylists can be played. The present invention can playbackentertainment playlists that have been pre-associated with a workout orfitness activity, permit the user to manually control the specificentertainment playlist played during an activity, or allow the lifestylecompanion system to automatically select entertainment playlists based,for example, on the energy rank of the entertainment playlist and theintensity of the activity.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem also can permit a user to assign one or more media files as“power songs.” Power songs may be predetermined audio files that a usercan preferably and instantly queue up at the push of a button for extramotivation.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companionsystem can permit a user to manually associate one or more playlistswith one or more building blocks. Alternatively, the lifestyle companionsystem can automatically associate one or more playlists with one ormore building blocks according to the relative expected energy levelrequired by the fitness activities associated with the building blocks.For example, the lifestyle companion system can automatically associatelower energy playlists with fitness activities to be performed duringthe beginning or end of a workout (e.g., warm-up or cool-down).Similarly, higher energy playlists automatically can be associated withfitness activities to be performed during the middle of the workout.Thus, when the user is exercising in accordance with the workoutcompilation, the lifestyle companion system can play media having energylevels that are appropriate for the types of fitness activities beingperformed by the user.

In operation, a user can begin composing a workout composition bydragging one or more selected building blocks to composition section1206 and arrange them in the order desired. Alternatively, the user canretrieve a pre-compiled workout compilation from memory or download apre-compiled workout compilation from a database. If the user sodesires, the user then can set or adjust the value of one or morefitness parameters 1216 of one or more fitness activities. Thereafter,the user can associate entertainment media playlists to the workoutcompilation or permit the lifestyle companion system to associateentertainment media playlists to the workout compilation based on theenergy rank of the playlist and the expected energy levels of individualfitness activities and/or all of the activities associated with theworkout compilation. Thereafter, the lifestyle companion system cancompile the workout compilation, creating an activity file. The activityfile can associate all of the media files, fitness parameters, and otherinformation related to the workout compilation composed by the user.

Once a user has completed the user interview and has reviewed and/orcomposed one or more workout compilations, the user can begin exercisingin accordance with one or more of the workout compilations. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the user can compose workoutcompilations on a local server (e.g., the user's PC) and download theworkout compilations onto a portable electronic device that the user cancarry with him while exercising. The portable electronic device canprovide both audio and visual cues to the user that relate to theworkout compilation and to any entertainment playlists being played backduring the workout.

Once the user has composed one or more workout compilations, the useralso can share the workout compilation with user-authorized entities,e.g., with the user's doctor, trainer, physical therapist, friend, orany other entity authorized by the user.

FIGS. 14-21 show illustrative graphic user interfaces during playback ofa workout compilation on an electronic device in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. Electronic device 1400 can includetouchscreen display 1402 on which the electronic device can displayvisual cues and user input components 1404-1412 to permit userinteraction with the electronic device and/or the workout compilation.Touchscreen display 1402 can sense when a user's finger(s) and/or handsapproaches, touches, or slides across the screen. User input components1404-1412 can be hard-wired user input components or virtual user inputcomponents that are part of touchscreen display 1402. For example, userinput components 1404-1412 can include one or more buttons, a touchpad,a touchscreen display, electronics for accepting voice commands,antennas, infrared ports, or combinations thereof. User input components1404-1412 also can include a hard-wired and/or virtual clickwheelsimilar to that incorporated into some models of the iPod™. Theclickwheel can have hardwired or virtual buttons and a track aroundwhich a user can run his finger to initiate scrolling.

FIG. 14 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a welcome screenon electronic device 1400 in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. Interface 1414 can provide visual cues related to aworkout compilation being played back by the electronic device. Forexample, visual cues can include fitness activity filmstrip 1416,progress indicator 1418, instructional section 1420, and exercise typeindicator 1422.

Fitness activity filmstrip 1416 can include graphic representations ofprevious, current, and future fitness activities that the workoutcompilation has, is, and will direct the user to perform. As the useradvances through the workout compilation, electronic device 1400 willupdate fitness activity filmstrip 1416 accordingly based on datareceived by sensors 208 and/or manual user input informative ofadvancement from a current activity to a future activity. For example,when the sensor data indicates that the user has completed the currentactivity (e.g., performed the current activity in accordance with theassociated fitness parameters), electronic device 1400 can update thefilmstrip by updating the graphics (e.g., by adding a graphicrepresenting the next future activity and removing the graphic of thelast previous activity).

Progress indicator 1418 can indicate the progress of the user inperforming the fitness activities of the currently loaded workoutcompilation. In one embodiment of the present invention, progressindicator 1418 can indicate the total number of fitness activitiesassociated with the currently loaded workout compilation and thelocation of the current fitness activity within the total number. In oneembodiment, electronic device 1400 can automatically update progressindicator 1418 based on data collected from sensor(s) 208 of FIG. 2about the user's performance. For example, once data collected fromsensors 208 indicates that the user has completed a fitness activity ofthe current workout compilation in accordance with the associatedfitness parameters, electronic device 1400 can automatically updateprogress indicator 1418 accordingly, in addition to displaying visualcues for the next fitness activity associated with the current workoutcompilation. The electronic device also can update progress indicator1418 based on user input signals that indicate the user's desire toadvance onto the next activity.

In the welcome screen of FIG. 14, instructional section 1420 can providevisual instructions for initiating the workout and information about theworkout itself (e.g., total duration, name of the workout, etc.).Instructional section 1420 also can include virtual user input component1404, which the user can actuate to obtain more detailed informationabout the currently loaded workout compilation. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, detailed information accessible via virtual userinput component 1404 can include an index of the fitness activitiesassociated with the currently loaded workout compilation, an example ofwhich is described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 21.

Exercise type indicator 1422 can indicate the type of exercise(s) forwhich the currently loaded workout compilation is targeting (e.g.,strength training). Other types of exercise types can include, forexample, weight loss, yoga, calisthenics, etc.

Interface 1414 also can provide visual representations of entertainmentplaylist(s) associated with the workout compilation, e.g., as describedin greater detail above with respect to FIG. 13. For example, interface1414 can provide entertainment filmstrip 1424 having graphics indicativeof the entertainment tracks associated with the entertainment playlistcurrently being played. Interface 1414 also can provide graphics 1426identifying the title and artist of the entertainment track currentlybeing played. Interface 1414 also can provide virtual user inputcomponents 1406 and 1408, which the user can actuate to change theentertainment playlist currently being played. For example, the user canactuate virtual user input component 1406 when the user desires to playan entertainment playlist having an energy rank that corresponds to alower energy level. The user can actuate virtual user input component1408 when the user desires to play an entertainment playlist rankedhaving an energy rank that corresponds to a higher energy level (e.g.,when the user wants to be motivated by songs having a faster tempo).Alternatively, electronic device 1400 can automatically linkentertainment playlists to fitness activities and/or workoutcompilations based respectively on the energy ranks of the entertainmentplaylists and the expected intensity of the fitness activities andworkout compilations. As described with respect to FIG. 13, the energylevels of the entertainment playlists can be manually ranked by the useror automatically rated by the lifestyle companion system.

FIG. 15 shows an illustrative graphic user interface provided byelectronic device 1400 during one fitness activity in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. In addition to one or more ofthe visual cues provided by interface 1414 of FIG. 14, interface 1502also can provide additional visual cues related to the workoutcompilation being played back by the electronic device. Such additionalvisual cues can include timer 1504 and textual information 1506regarding the fitness activity the workout compilation is instructingthe user to perform. Timer 1504 can be a countdown timer that indicatesthe amount of time remaining in the current fitness activity or theamount of time elapsed since the beginning of the current fitnessactivity. Textual information 1506 can provide information about thefitness activity the workout compilation is directing the user toperform, e.g., the phase of the workout compilation (e.g., warm-up,cool-down, etc.), the title of the fitness activity, the amount of timein which the user should perform the indicated fitness activity, etc. Inone embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 also canprovide audio cues about information similar or identical to thatprovided as textual information 1506.

Electronic device 1400 also can provide hard-wired or virtual user inputcomponents 1410, 1412, 1508 for the user to interact with the workoutcompilation currently being played. For example, a user can actuate userinput component 1508 to obtain more detailed information about thecurrent fitness activity. In one embodiment of the present invention,detailed information accessible via virtual user input component 1508can include instructions for performing the current fitness activityand/or more detailed information about the fitness parameters associatedwith the current fitness activity (e.g., as described in greater detailbelow with respect to FIGS. 17 and 18).

A user can actuate user input component 1410 to play, pause, and/or stopplayback of the current workout compilation. For example, a single shortpress of the user input component can instruct the electronic device topause playback of the workout compilation, while a two short presses ofthe user input component can instruct the electronic device to stop theplayback of the workout compilation.

A user also can actuate virtual user input component 1412 to advanceonto the next successive fitness activity in the workout compilation. Inan alternative embodiment of the present invention, electronic device1400 also can be configured to permit the user to navigate to adifferent fitness activity associated with the current workoutcompilation by actuating one of the graphic representations of fitnessactivity filmstrip 1416. For example, to advance onto the next fitnessactivity or return to a previous fitness activity, the user can actuatethe graphic representation of that fitness activity on filmstrip 1416,e.g., by pressing on the appropriate representation. As described ingreater detail below with respect to FIG. 19, electronic device 1400also can advance onto the next successive fitness activity automaticallywhen the collected sensor data indicates that the user has completed thecurrent activity. When electronic device 1400 advances onto the nextsuccessive fitness activity, the electronic device can update theactivity information displayed on its display to reflect information(e.g., instructions) for that next activity.

FIG. 16 shows an illustrative graphic user interface provided byelectronic device 1400 during a rest time activity in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. Like interface 1502 of FIG. 15,interface 1602 also can have timer 1604. To indicate that the presentactivity is a rest time activity, fitness activity filmstrip 1416 candepict a graphical representation of time (e.g., a clock). If a user isready to begin the next fitness activity before the time allocated forthe rest time activity has timed out, the user may manually advance theworkout compilation to the next fitness activity by actuating therepresentation of the desired fitness activity on filmstrip 1416 oractuating user input component 1412.

Interface 1602 also can incorporate instructional section 1606 toprovide visual instructions for the next fitness activity. For example,in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, instructional section 1606 caninstruct the user to prepare for the next fitness activity (e.g., bicepscurl) by gathering the proper equipment for the activity (e.g., 10 lbs.barbells). Instructional section 1606 also can include user inputcomponent 1608, which, when actuated, can reveal more detailedinformation about the next fitness activity, e.g., as described ingreater detail below with respect to FIGS. 17 and 18.

FIG. 17 shows an illustrative graphic user interface provided byelectronic device 1400 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Interface 1702 can provide a platform through which thelifestyle companion system can provide the user with more detailedinformation about a fitness activity. For example, interface 1702 canprovide a platform through which the lifestyle companion system canprovide the user with pictorial instructions 1704 for the fitnessactivity, detailed textual instructions 1706 for the fitness activity,and instructional fitness parameters 1708 associated with the fitnessactivity.

Pictorial instructions 1704 and textual instructions 1706 can provideinstructions related to the proper way to perform the fitness activitycurrently being displayed on interface 1702. For example, theinstructions can relate to proper posture during the routine, properbreathing techniques, and/or other information related to the proper wayto perform the fitness activity. If the textual instructions requiremore space than available on interface 1702, electronic device 1400 canpermit the user to scroll through the textual instructions by usinguser-actuable scroll bar 1710 on interface 1702 or another userinterface component (e.g., a hard-wired scroll wheel). Pictorialinstructional 1704 can include one or more still images and/or videos.

As discussed above with respect to FIG. 12, adjustable fitnessparameters 1708 can be considered as instructions that guide the user inperforming a fitness activity. Fitness parameters 1708 can include,e.g., the number of sets the workout compilation is instructing the userto perform, the number of repetitions per set the workout compilation isinstructing the user to perform, the equipment the workout compilationis instructing the user to use in performing the fitness activity, theamount of time the workout compilation is instructing the user toallocate in performing the fitness activity, the entertainment playlistor file the user programmed the workout module to play during thefitness activity, etc. Fitness parameters 1708 can reflect defaultvalues, values suggested by the lifestyle companion system based on theuser's profile or previously collected sensor data, values programmed bya third party and downloaded by the user in step 105 of FIG. 1, orvalues programmed by the user in step 105 using, for example, interface1200 of FIG. 12. Thus, the fitness parameters can have default values orvalues customized for the user.

In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 canpermit the user to adjust one or more user-programmable parameters of afitness activity in real-time during playback of the workoutcompilation. The user can select and adjust the parameters by using avirtual or hard-wired user input component. The electronic device canfacilitate the selection by visually distinguishing the selectedparameter. Once the user has adjusted one or more parameters, theelectronic device can proceed to continue playing back the currentlyloaded workout compilation in accordance with the adjustments to thefitness parameters. For example, if the user changes the number of setsfrom 3 sets to 2 sets, the adjustment can be reflected in the fitnessparameters displayed by the electronic device and in the storedinformation associated with the current workout compilation. Adjustmentsto fitness parameters also can be considered data collected about auser's performance of scheduled activities. Thus, the lifestylecompanion system can adapt the user's goals, adapt later scheduledactivities, and/or suggest activities, references, and/or plug-inmodules for the user's consideration based on user-adjustments to thefitness parameters.

Electronic device 1400 also can adjust fitness parameters 1708 and/or auser's fitness goals in real-time based on data collected from sensors208 of FIG. 2. For example, if the sensor data indicates that the useris in poor physical shape, the electronic device can adjust one or morefitness parameters associated with one or more fitness activities toreduce, for example, the amount of time allocated to the fitnessactivities and/or the intensity level of the fitness activities. Theelectronic device also can adjust the user's fitness goals to be lessambitious to maintain the user's motivational level.

In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 canadjust fitness parameters 1708 and/or the user's fitness goals based onwhether the user's performance metrics indicate that the user isbecoming fatigued. For example, electronic device 1400 can detectfatigue by measuring changes in one or more physiological metrics (e.g.,breaths per minute, heart rate, or pace) as compared to a predeterminedvalue. Electronic device 1400 also can detect fatigue by measuringchanges in one or more physiological metrics as weighted by a weightingfactor indicative of an expected intensity of the fitness activity. Ifthe user's physiological metrics indicate fatigue, for example,electronic device 1400 may immediately reduce the intensity of thecurrent fitness activity, e.g., by reducing the number of reps or setsthe workout compilation is instructing the user to perform in thepresent workout.

In another embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400can adjust fitness parameters 1708 and/or the user's fitness goals basedon whether the user's performance metrics indicate the user will meetthe user's short-term or long-term calorie burning goal. For example,electronic device 1400 can determine the number of calories a user burnsby measuring the heat flux radiating from a predetermined location on aperson's skin or tracking the amount of movement a user undertakes(e.g., the distance the user runs) with respect to the user's weight.Based on the number of calories burned, the electronic device then canproject, for example, whether the user can attain the user's calorieburning goals. If the electronic device determines that the user willnot be able to meet his goals, the electronic device can, for example,immediately increase the intensity of the current fitness activity byincreasing the number of reps or sets the workout compilation isinstructing the user to perform in the present workout.

Additional information about systems and methods for adjusting ofuser-programmable parameters of a media file (such as the workoutcompilation of the present invention) during playback of the media filecan be found in the incorporated VARIABLE I/O document and theincorporated provisional patent application.

In addition to instructions 1704-1708, interface 1702 also can provideadditional visual cues related to the workout compilation, including,e.g., title 1712 of the fitness activity, progress indicator 1714, etc.Progress indicator 1714 can indicate the user's progress through thefitness activities associated with the workout compilation currentlybeing played back by electronic device 1400.

Interface 1702 also can include icon 1716, which closes interface 1702when actuated by the user. When interface 1702 is closed, electronicdevice 1400 can return to, for example, interface 1502 of FIG. 15, 1602of FIG. 16, or 1902 of FIG. 19.

FIG. 18 shows an illustrative graphic user interface provided byelectronic device 1400 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. Interface 1802 can provide a platform through which thelifestyle companion system can provide the user with more detailedinformation about a fitness activity. Interface 1802 can be similar tointerface 1702 of FIG. 17. For example, interface 1802 also canincorporate pictorial instructions 1804 related to performance of thefitness activity, user-adjustable fitness parameters 1806, title 1808 ofthe fitness activity, progress indicator 1810, and user-actuableclose-interface icon 1812. In one embodiment of the present invention,pictorial instructions 1804 can be larger than that of interface 1702 ofFIG. 17. Depending on the area occupied by pictorial instructions 1804,interface may or may not incorporate textual instructions related toperformance of the fitness activity.

FIG. 19 shows an illustrative graphic user interface provided byelectronic device 1400 during one fitness activity in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. Interface 1902 can incorporateuser-adjustable fitness parameters 1904, performance metric 1906, andprogress indicator 1908. In one embodiment of the present invention,electronic device 1400 can automatically update performance metric 1906based on data collected by sensors 208 of FIG. 2. For example, ifperformance metric 1906 tracks the number of sets completed by the user,electronic device 206 can update the performance metric when the sensordata indicates that the user has completed a set of the prescribedactivity.

Interface 1902 also can include user-actuable user input component 1910.When actuated by the user, electronic device 1400 can displayinformation about the current fitness activity, e.g., as described ingreater detail above with respect to FIGS. 17 and 18.

FIG. 20 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a finish screenon electronic device 1400 in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. Interface 2002 can be similar to interface 1414 ofFIG. 14, except that instructional section 2004 can display a graphicmessage appropriate for the completion of the workout compilation.

FIG. 21 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an index offitness activities associated with a workout compilation in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention. Interface 2102 can providea platform in which a user can keep track of his progress through aworkout compilation. Interface 2102 can incorporate graphicrepresentations 2104 of the fitness activities. The representations canbe sorted in the order in which the associated activities are to beperformed.

Interface 2102 also can incorporate progress indicator 2106, which canvisually distinguish the fitness activities that the user has alreadyperformed from the fitness activities that the user has yet to perform.In one embodiment, electronic device 1400 can be configured to determinewhich activities the user has already performed based on collectedsensor data. The electronic device also can be configured to determinewhich activities the user has already performed based on user input(e.g., user input that indicates the user's desire to advance ontosuccessive activities).

Interface 2102 also can permit a user to jump around to differentactivities in the workout compilation. For example, if the user has justcompleted the legs lunge activity and would like to skip to the backsuperman activity next, the user can indicate this by actuating thegraphic representation for the back superman activity. Electronic device1400 then would advance onto the back superman activity next, ratherthan the biceps curl activity that originally was scheduled next.

In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 canremember the location in the workout compilation at which a user haspaused a workout compilation. When a user returns to the paused workoutcompilation, e.g., after a few minutes, hours, or days, electronicdevice 1400 can display index interface 2102 to remind the user of hisprogress through the workout compilation.

In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 alsocan provide audio cues related to the workout compilation and/or a userperformance metric. For example, in addition to the visual instructionson instructional section 1420 for initiating the workout, electronicdevice 1400 also can provide the same instructions audibly. Otheraudible cues can be related to, for example, the exercise type, the nextfitness activity to be performed, the progress of the user through theworkout compilation, instructions for a fitness activity (e.g., fitnessparameters associated with a fitness activity and/or the proper way toperform a fitness activity), etc. In one embodiment of the presentinvention, the audio cues can be provided simultaneously with visualcues or in lieu of visual cues.

The audio cues can be provided at predetermined points in the workoutcompilation (e.g., at the end of each fitness activity) or dynamicallyprovided based on a user's performance metrics. For example, electronicdevice 1400 can provide audio cues about the user's performance metrics,e.g., in isolation, as compared to the user's long-term or short-termperformance goals, and/or as compared to the performance metrics ofother people. The audio cues can be motivational in nature. For example,the audio cues can congratulate the user when the user runs her fastestmile or has met a performance goal.

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative fitness system for facilitating collectionof data about a user's fitness performance and adaptation of a fitnessactivity based on the collected data in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. System 2000 can include exercise machine(e.g., treadmill) 2002, integrated exercise machine sensor 2004,portable electronic device 2006 (e.g., iPod™), and wearable sensors 2008and 2010 (e.g., the sensor from the Nike+iPod Sport Kit and heat fluxsensor).

In one embodiment of the present invention, one of the activities of auser's workout compilation can include exercising on exercise machine2002. Portable electronic device 2006 can collect data from sensors 2004and 2008-2010 and from other data sources (e.g., manual entry by theuser). Based on the collected data and on a user profile stored inmemory of the portable electronic device, the portable electronic devicecan provide media cues to the user and control exercise machine 2002.Portable electronic device 2006 also can store the collected data forfuture analysis or for transmission to user-authorized entities.

To collect data from the sensors, portable electronic device 2006 can beequipped with a communication module (e.g., communication module 210 ofFIG. 2) for receiving signals transmitted by sensors 2004, 2008, 2010and/or other data sources. If one or more sensors are configured totransmit their data wirelessly, the communication module can beconfigured to accept the data using the same wireless protocol. If oneor more of the sensors (e.g., integrated exercise sensor 2004) areconfigured to transmit data via a hard-wired connection (e.g., through adock or cable), the communication module also can be configured toaccept the data in the same manner.

Based on the data collected from data sources and the user profile,portable electronic device 2006 can dynamically adapt (in real-time) anyof the adjustable fitness parameters of exercise machine 2002 (e.g.,speed setting or inclination setting). That is, based on the collecteddata and the user profile, the portable electronic device can generatecontrol signals to influence operation of the exercise machine. Forexample, if collected data indicates that the user's heart rate is toohigh for his weight class, portable electronic device can generatecontrol signals that instruct exercise machine 2002 to immediatelyreduce its speed and/or reduce its inclination.

The computation for adjusting an exercise parameter of the exercisemachine can at least partially be based on comparison of the user'sperformance metric(s) (e.g., heart rate) to target performance metric(s)(e.g., a target heart rate for the user's weight).

To facilitate communication and other interaction between portableelectronic device 2006 and exercise machine 2002, the two devices canundergo a handshaking operation at the start of their interaction. Forexample, at the beginning of any interaction between the portableelectronic device and the exercise machine, exercise machine 2002 cantransmit identification data to portable electronic device 2006 toidentify the exercise machine. The portable electronic device can usethe identification data to determine the proper fitness parameters toadjust. The portable electronic device also can use the identificationdata to ensure that the collected data is linked with the correctexercise machine when the data is stored in memory. Thus, when thestored data is reviewed later, it can be reviewed in the proper context.

In one embodiment of the present invention, system 2000 can haveduplicative data sources. Duplicative data sources can include multipleindependent sensors that can provide data about the same performancemetric. As used herein, while duplicative data sources can provide dataabout the same performance metric, duplicative data sources also canprovide data about different performance metrics.

One advantage of using duplicative data sources to track a user'sperformance of an activity is the opportunity to select and use datafrom the data source providing the more accurate data. For example, atreadmill can provide calorie count based on the weight of the user andthe miles the user has traversed. However, portable electronic device2006 also can receive calorie information from a heat flux sensor (e.g.,sensor 2008) that measures heat radiating from the user. Under somecircumstances, heat flux information may be a more accurate indicationof calories burned than the treadmill information. In one embodiment ofthe present invention, system 2000 can determine the duplicative datasource providing the more accurate information by comparing data fromeach duplicative data source to the user's historic data and/or to areference or calibration value or range of values. Thus, the presentinvention can include the ability to manually or automatically selectamong two or more data sources. Other embodiments of the presentinvention described herein also can include duplicative data sources.

While FIG. 22 illustrates a treadmill for use with the lifestylecompanion system of the present invention, other exercise machineshaving adjustable exercise parameters also may be equipped tocommunicate with portable electronic device 2006 in the mannerdescribed. For example, adjustable weight machines, adjustableelliptical trainers, adjustable rowers, adjustable stationary bicycles,or any other suitable exercise machine can be equipped to communicatewith (e.g., be controlled by and provide data to) portable electronicdevice 2006.

In one embodiment of the present invention, multiple exercise machinesin a fitness facility can be equipped to communicate with portableelectronic devices 2006. This can permit a user to aggregate hisperformance metrics from multiple exercise machines onto a single device(e.g., portable electronic device 2006). For example, the user cancollect and store data from multiple exercise machines during a singleworkout or multiple workouts using portable electronic device 2006.Advantageously, rather than aggregating and analyzing data about theuser's performance metrics in a piecemeal fashion, the user or anauthorized entity can efficiently obtain a more complete picture of theuser's performance and fitness abilities using the present invention.

Portable electronic device 2006 can provide audio and visual cues basedon the data collected from sensors that track the user's performance andfrom sensors that track other people's performance(s) in accordance withthe principles of the present invention. For example, a user and hisworkout partner may be jogging together, exercising on separate exercisemachines, or otherwise working out together. A user's portableelectronic device can be configured to accept data indicative of his ownperformance metrics from sensors associated with his own user profile(or portable electronic device) and data indicative of his partner'sperformance metrics. The data indicative of the user's partner'sperformance metrics can be transmitted from the partner's portableelectronic device or from sensors associated with the partner's userprofile or portable electronic device.

The user's electronic device may compare the partner's performancemetrics to that of his own, and, based thereon, provide the user with amedia cue. In one embodiment, the media cues can be indicative of theuser's performance metrics and/or the partner's performance metrics. Forexample, if the user's performance metrics do not compare favorable withthe partner's performance metrics, the user's portable electronic devicecan instruct the user to “Speed it up. Partner has already run 3 milesand you have only run 2 miles!”

In an alternative example, the user and his exercise partner may beexercising on different types of exercise machines equipped tocommunicate with portable electronic devices 2006. The user's electronicdevice and the partner's electronic device can each log the performancemetrics of each person. The partner's electronic device can send thepartner's performance metrics to the user's electronic device. Theuser's electronic device then can compare the user's performance metricsto those of the partner with respect to, for example, calories burned.After a predetermined period of time, the user's electronic device caninstruct the user to “Speed it up. You have burned 50 calories in 20minutes, while your partner has burned 70 calories in 20 minutes.”

FIG. 23A shows an illustrative progress report in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. Progress screen 2300 can includetextual indications 2302 and pictorial indications 2304 of a user'sprogress towards fitness goals. Progress screen 2300 also canincorporate motivational messages 2306 tailored to the user'sperformance metrics (e.g., as compared with the target metrics). Forexample, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 23A, screen 2300 displays thefollowing motivational message: “You are doing great!” Progress towardother fitness goals or lifestyle goals also can be shown in graphicalinterfaces (e.g., similar to screen 2300) without departing from thespirit of the invention.

FIG. 23B shows illustrative progress report 2300 after goal adaptationbased on the user's performance metrics in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. For example, textual indication2302 and pictorial indication 2304 can be updated to show a decrease inthe total number of walks the user has to perform over a predeterminedperiod as compared to the original goal. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, the adjustment can be visually distinguished, e.g.,as blinking graphic 2308. The adjustment can be implemented in responseto the user's performance metrics, as determined from data collectedfrom data sources, e.g., sensors 208 of FIG. 2. For example, the targetnumber of walks can be reduced as a result of the user's poorperformance through a first predetermined time period (e.g., four weeks)of the fitness schedule.

In accordance with another embodiment, the lifestyle companion system ofthe present invention can facilitate synchronous group activities. Forexample, the lifestyle companion system can be used to ensure that eachparticipant in a group activity is being instructed to performactivities in concert with the other participants of the activity. Thatis, each participant can be instructed to perform the same activities asthe other participants (e.g., in group workouts) or activities thatcomplement the activities the other participants are being instructed toperform (e.g., in a band, theatrical production, or interactive sportactivity).

FIG. 24 shows an illustrative flowchart for facilitating synchronousgroup activities in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. In step 2402, the lifestyle companion system can transmitactivity files to multiple member electronic devices to be used by themembers of the group. The activity files can be downloaded onto eachmember electronic device (e.g., a portable media device similar to theiPod™) from a local server, a central server, or a participatingelectronic device (e.g., a master electronic device). In one embodimentof the present invention, the activity file can be created by a grouporganizer (e.g., fitness trainer, band leader, drill sergeant,theatrical director, athletic coach, etc.) in accordance with thesystems and methods described herein.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the same activity file(e.g., a workout compilation) can be downloaded to all of the memberdevices. Alternatively, each member electronic device can be providedwith different activity files. For example, the activity files can bedifferent because the activity files may store different media itemscorresponding to different but complementary activities. When theactivity files are played back on the member devices, the differentactivity files can instruct each group participant to perform at leastone activity that is different than an activity another groupparticipant is being directed to perform (e.g., in a band, theatricalproduction, or interactive sport activity). Alternatively, the activityfiles can be different because the activity files may store differentparameters associated with the same activities. When the activity filesare played back on the member devices, the activity files can instructthe group participants to perform the same activity, but in accordancewith different parameters (e.g., different weights in a bicep curlactivity).

In one embodiment of the present invention, an activity file can includea file in which all media items and parameters associated with anactivity or compilation of activities are stored. Alternatively, anactivity file can include multiple files in which all media items andparameters associated with an activity or compilation of activities arestored. For example, an activity file can include a first file in whichthe media items are stored and a second file in which the parameters arestored. Activity files can be considered different when they share thesame media items but different parameters.

Once the activity file has been downloaded into each participatingelectronic device, the group members can begin performing the activity.In step 2404, one or more member electronic devices can send one or moresynchronization signals to one or more of the other member electronicdevices via wired or wireless communication protocols. For example, amaster electronic device (e.g., used by the group organizer) can sendout a synchronization signal to the other electronic devices to indicatethat each device should begin playback of the downloaded activity file.During subsequent playback of the activity file, the master electronicdevice can continue to periodically send synchronization pulses to theother member devices to ensure that each member electronic devicecontinues to play back the downloaded activity file in concert with theother member electronic devices.

In step 2406, each member electronic device can provide audio and/orvisual cues to their respective participants in accordance with thesystems and methods described herein. The audio and/or visual cuesprovided by each member device can be the same as those provided to theother members. Alternatively, the audio and/or visual cues provided byone or more of the member devices can be different than those providedto the other members. For example, when two or more participants areinstructed to perform different but complementary activities (e.g., in aband, theatrical production, or interactive sport activity), eachparticipant's electronic device can provide audio and/or visual cuesthat are appropriate for the activity that participant is beinginstructed to perform.

In one embodiment, the media cues can be related to data collected instep 2408. For example, the portable electronic devices can collect dataindicative of the users' performance metrics before the devices providemedia cues related thereto. The media cues also can be related to amember's performance as compared to the performance of one or more othermembers (as discussed above with respect to FIG. 22). For example, afirst member device can receive data indicative of performance metricsof first and second members of the group activity. The first memberdevice can compare the two sets of data and transmit a media cue to thefirst member based on the comparison.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the audio and/or visual cuesrelated to the group activity can be blended or overlaid withentertainment media tracks that each participant has selected forplayback on their respective electronic device. For example, eachparticipant may choose to play different music while working out to agroup fitness activity. The present invention can blend audio cues forthe group fitness activity into the different music being played on eachmember electronic device.

In step 2408, the lifestyle companion system can collect data about theperformance of the group participants. For example, each participatingdevice can collect data from sensors associated therewith in accordancewith the systems and methods described herein. The participating devicesalso can transmit the sensor data to other participating devices, suchas the master device and/or another member device. Alternatively, themaster device can be configured to accept the sensor data from thesensors directly without having to wait for transmission from anotherparticipating device.

In step 2410, one or more participating electronic devices (including amaster electronic device) can be provided with at least partialoperational control of one or more of the other member electronicdevices. For example, a master electronic device can be provided withthe ability to dynamically adjust parameters of the activity asdiscussed in greater detail below with respect to step 2412.Alternatively, each participating electronic device can have the abilityto generate and send control signals to influence operation of the otherparticipating electronic devices and/or the master device. The controlsignals can, for example, pause playback of the activity file ortemporarily reduce the volume on the other electronic device(s) in thegroup. For example, when one person wants to communicate with the otherperson(s) in the group activity, the participating electronic devicescan have the ability to lower the volume on or pause the otherelectronic device(s), e.g., in response to speech or activation of auser input by the first group member.

In step 2412, the lifestyle companion system can permit a member's ownelectronic device and/or a master electronic device to dynamically adaptone or more of the user's goals based on the data collected in step2408. The lifestyle companion system also can permit a member's ownelectronic device and/or a master electronic device to dynamically adaptthe parameters of the current activity based on the collected data. Forexample, a master electronic device can be configured to adapt a user'sgoals or the parameters of an activity on one or more of theparticipating electronic devices by generating and transmitting controlsignals to the target electronic device over a wireless or wired link,even while the participating electronic devices are playing thecurrently loaded activity file. The control signals can influenceoperation of the recipient electronic device by, for example, changingthe parameters of the activities stored in the activities files on thoseelectronic devices.

In step 2414, the lifestyle companion system can distribute rewards tothe users, as described, for example, in the incorporated REWARDSSYSTEMS document and the incorporated provisional patent application.

FIG. 25 shows an illustrative flow chart for implementing a nutritionprogram with the lifestyle companion system in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. In step 2502, the lifestylecompanion system can provide a platform for conducting an interviewrelated to nutrition. Interview questions can be directed to, e.g.,weight-loss goals, the user's current diet, food allergies, foodpreferences, medical conditions, medications, financial allocation fornutritional needs, religion, time available to prepare food, otherlifestyle information, etc. Based on the user interview responses, thelifestyle companion system can generate a user nutritional profile towhich the lifestyle companion system can later refer in steps 2504-2506and 2516-2520.

In step 2503, the lifestyle companion system can supplement the user'sprofile with the profiles of dining partners so that the lifestylecompanion system can suggest, for example, nutritional activities (e.g.,recipes, restaurants, etc.) that are appropriate for the user and hisdining partners.

In step 2504, the lifestyle companion system can assign nutritionalcategory levels based on the user's interview responses. For example,users may be labeled as vegan, vegetarian, kosher, lactose intolerant,dieter, etc.

In step 2506, the lifestyle companion system can suggest nutritionactivities, references, and/or plug-in modules based directly orindirectly on the user's interview responses. For example, the lifestylecompanion system can recommend the user patronize certain restaurants inthe area's hometown. In one embodiment of the present invention, thelifestyle companion system can be linked to the menus of restaurants andthe lifestyle companion system can suggest menu selections based, forexample, on the user's nutritional needs and restrictions and/or on theuser's availability of funds.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a user can be provided witha portable electronic device on which is stored his user nutritionprofile. The user can be dining at a suggested restaurant and desire thelifestyle companion system to suggest menu selections based on hisdietary and financial restrictions. If the user's portable electronicdevice already has the restaurant's menu stored in its memory, theuser's device can immediately cross-reference the user's profile withthe menu to select appropriate menu selections. However, if the user'sportable electronic device does not have the restaurant's menu stored inits memory, the user can download the menu by linking his device to therestaurant's server. This can be accomplished, for example, by couplingthe communication module on the user's device to an internet link or adock coupled to the restaurant's server. Once the restaurant's menu isdownloaded into the user's device, the device can select the appropriatemenu selections. The user's device can provide the suggestions audiblyand/or through graphics (e.g., text, still images, and/or video) on adisplay.

The lifestyle companion system also can suggest recipes and/or mealplans tailored to the needs of the user. The recipes and meal plans canbe suggested based on the user's nutritional needs and/or restrictions,any specific diets the user is trying, relevant life events (e.g., auser's birthday and/or the user's exercise schedule), etc. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the system can receive input fromlocal food providers (e.g., grocery stores). Thus, the recipes and mealplans suggested by the lifestyle companion system also can be influencedby a variation of prices at the local food providers.

The lifestyle companion system also can suggest websites or plug-inmodules for special diet plans, e.g., diet plans branded by Jenny Craigor Weight Watchers. The lifestyle companion system can be pre-loadedwith plug-in modules related to nutrition or the user can downloadnutrition plug-in modules from a database of such offerings, e.g., fromiTunes™.

In step 2508, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform forthe user to create nutrition activities. For example, the lifestylecompanion system can provide an interface similar to interface 1200 ofFIG. 12 for the user to plan meals or customize meal plans suggested bythe lifestyle companion system in step 2506. However, rather thanbuilding blocks of fitness activities, the nutrition interface can offerbuilding blocks of recipes or food dishes sorted, for example, by thefood groups and/or courses (e.g. appetizer, entree, or dessert).

In step 2510, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform forthe user to schedule nutrition activities. For example, the user canschedule shopping trips to local food providers identified with respectto the recipes suggested in step 2506. The user also can schedule diningout opportunities at the restaurants suggested in step 2506.

In step 2512, the lifestyle companion system can provide audio and/orvisual cues related to the nutritional activities. For example, thelifestyle companion system can provide nutritional information about aselected restaurant and/or menu selection. The lifestyle companionsystem also can indicate how the menu selections affect the user'snutritional plan and/or goals.

Another example of a visual cue can include graphic indications ofsuggested portion size. For example, if a recipe or diet plan calls fora certain portion of an ingredient or food, the lifestyle companionsystem can provide visual comparisons of the suggested portion size toan everyday object. Illustratively, if a recipe or meal plan calls for acup of broccoli, the lifestyle companion system can graphically indicatethat a cup of broccoli may have a size comparable to a baseball.

In step 2514, the lifestyle companion system can collect data about theuser's performance of an activity. For example, the user can carry aportable electronic device having a scanner that can scan a barcoderepresenting the food purchased and/or eaten by the user. Alternatively,the user can couple his portable electronic device into a dock at arestaurant. A server at the restaurant then can download nutritionalinformation about the user's meal into the user's device.

In step 2516, the lifestyle companion system can dynamically adapt theuser's nutritional goals and/or activities based on the data collectedin step 2514. For example, if a user consumes too many calories, thelifestyle companion system can reduce the user's future allotment ofcalories by, for example, suggesting different recipes or menuselections in step 2506, suggesting different portions in steps 2506 and2512, and/or changing the ingredients in suggested recipes. Thelifestyle companion system also can adjust the user's nutritional goalsif data collected over a predetermined period of time indicate that theuser's nutritional habits will not enable the user to reach the user'snutritional goals.

In step 2518, the lifestyle companion system can provide progressreports related to the user's nutritional habits, goals, and/oractivities.

In step 2520, the lifestyle companion system can distribute rewards tothe user based on nutrition data collected in step 2514, as described,for example, in the incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document and theincorporated provisional patent application.

Although particular embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed above in detail, it will be understood that this descriptionis merely for purposes of illustration. Alternative embodiments of thosedescribed hereinabove also are within the scope of the presentinvention. For example, alternative embodiments of the present inventioncan incorporate any one or more of the steps described with respect toFIGS. 1, 24, and 25. For example, in one embodiment of the presentinvention, the lifestyle companion system can permit a user to compileand play back a compilation of activities without the user having to gothrough an interview and/or without collected data about the user'sactivities. Also, alternative embodiments of the present invention alsocan provide any one or more of the screens and user interfaces describedherein.

Furthermore, various embodiments described herein or portions thereofcan be combined without departing from the present invention. Forexample, fitness partners can use the lifestyle companion softwaredescribed with respect to FIGS. 12-13 to compose separate workoutcompilations customized for each individual, use their respectiveportable electronic devices to control and collect data from exercisemachines as described with respect to FIG. 22, and use their respectiveportable electronic devices to influence operation of each other'sportable electronic device as described with respect to FIG. 24.

The above described embodiments of the present invention are presentedfor purposes of illustration and not of limitation, and the presentinvention is limited only by the claims which follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A master electronic device for coordinating agroup activity, the master electronic device comprising: a mastercommunication module configured to communicate with a first membercommunication module disposed in a first member electronic device andwith a second member communication module disposed in a second memberelectronic device; and a controller configured to: generate asynchronization signal for synchronizing playback of a first activityfile by the first member electronic device and playback of a secondactivity file by the second member electronic device; and transmit thesynchronization signal to each of the first and second member electronicdevices via the master communication module, wherein: the playback ofthe first activity file instructs a first user of the first memberelectronic device to perform a first activity of the group activity inaccordance with a first parameter; and the playback of the secondactivity file instructs a second user of the second member electronicdevice to perform a second activity of the group activity in accordancewith a second parameter that is different than the first parameter. 2.The master electronic device of claim 1, wherein the controller isconfigured to generate first control signals to influence operation ofthe first member electronic device.
 3. The master electronic device ofclaim 2, wherein the first control signals instruct the first memberelectronic device to pause the playback of the first activity file. 4.The master electronic device of claim 2, wherein the first controlsignals instruct the first member electronic device to reduce playvolume during the playback of the first activity file.
 5. The masterelectronic device of claim 2, wherein the first control signals instructthe first member electronic device to change an adjustable parameterassociated with the first activity file.
 6. The master electronic deviceof claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to: accept sensor dataindicative of performance metrics of the second user during the playbackof the second activity file; and generate the first control signalsbased on at least a portion of the sensor data.
 7. The master electronicdevice of claim 2, wherein the first control signals instruct the firstmember electronic device to generate a first media cue.
 8. The masterelectronic device of claim 1, wherein: the controller is furtherconfigured to generate the synchronization signal for synchronizingplayback of a third activity file of the group activity by the masterelectronic device; the controller is configured to accept second controlsignals from at least one of the first and second member electronicdevices; and the second control signals are configured to alter theplayback of the third activity file.
 9. The master electronic device ofclaim 8, wherein the second control signals instruct the controller topause the playback of the third activity file.
 10. The master electronicdevice of claim 8, wherein the second control signals instruct thecontroller to reduce play volume during the playback of the thirdactivity file.
 11. The master electronic device of claim 1, wherein thecontroller is configured to periodically generate and transmit thesynchronization signal.
 12. The master electronic device of claim 1,further comprising memory for storing at least the first activity file,wherein the controller is configured to transmit the first activity fileto the first member electronic device.
 13. The master electronic deviceof claim 1, further comprising memory for storing the first activityfile and the second activity file, wherein the controller is configuredto transmit the first activity file to the first member electronicdevice and to transmit the second activity file to the second memberelectronic device.
 14. The master electronic device of claim 1, whereinthe first member electronic device is the master electronic device. 15.The master electronic device of claim 1, wherein the controller isconfigured to: accept first input data generated by the first userduring the playback of the first activity file by the first memberelectronic device; accept second input data generated by the second userduring the playback of the second activity file by the second memberelectronic device; and generate a first control signal for influencingthe operation of the first member electronic device based on the secondinput data.
 16. The master electronic device of claim 15, wherein thecontroller is configured to generate the first control signal forinfluencing the operation of the first member electronic device based onthe first input data and the second input data.
 17. The masterelectronic device of claim 16, wherein: the first input data comprisessensor data indicative of performance metrics of the first user duringthe playback of the first activity file; and the second input datacomprises sensor data indicative of performance metrics of the seconduser during the playback of the second activity file.
 18. The masterelectronic device of claim 15, wherein: the first input data comprisessensor data indicative of performance metrics of the first user duringthe playback of the first activity file; the second input data comprisessensor data indicative of performance metrics of the second user duringthe playback of the second activity file; and the controller isconfigured to generate the first control signal for influencing theoperation of the first member electronic device based on a comparison ofthe first input data and the second input data.
 19. The masterelectronic device of claim 18, wherein the first control signalinstructs the first member electronic device to generate a first mediacue.
 20. The master electronic device of claim 15, wherein thecontroller is configured to generate a second control signal forinfluencing the operation of the second member electronic device basedon at least one of the first input data and the second input data. 21.The master electronic device of claim 20, wherein the second controlsignal instructs the second member electronic device to change anadjustable parameter associated with the second activity file.
 22. Themaster electronic device of claim 15, wherein: the controller is furtherconfigured to generate the synchronization signal for synchronizingplayback of a third activity file of the group activity by the masterelectronic device; and at least one of the first input data and thesecond input data instructs the controller to change an adjustableparameter associated with the third activity file.
 23. The masterelectronic device of claim 1, wherein the first activity file is thesecond activity file.
 24. The master electronic device of claim 23,wherein the group activity is a group workout activity.
 25. The masterelectronic device of claim 1, wherein the first activity file isdifferent than the second activity file.
 26. The master electronicdevice of claim 25, wherein the first activity is different than thesecond activity.
 27. The master electronic device of claim 25, wherein:the first activity is the second activity; and at least the firstparameter of the first activity file is different than at least thesecond parameter of the second activity file.
 28. The master electronicdevice of claim 25, wherein the group activity is one of a band groupactivity, a theatrical production group activity, and an interactivesport group activity.
 29. A non-transitory computer readable storagemedium for a first portable media player, the computer readable mediumcomprising: a first instruction code for playing back a first media fileon the first portable media player; a second instruction code foraccepting user input from a first user into the first portable mediaplayer during playback of the first media file; a third instruction codefor generating a first control signal based on the user input forinfluencing operation of a second portable media player; and a fourthinstruction code for transmitting the first control signal from thefirst portable media player to the second portable media player, whereinthe playback of the first media file instructs the first user of thefirst portable media player to perform a first activity of a groupactivity, wherein the first control signal is configured to influenceplayback of a second media file by the second portable media player, andwherein the playback of the second media file by the second portablemedia player instructs a second user of the second portable media playerto perform a second activity of the group activity.
 30. Thenon-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 29, wherein thefirst control signal is configured to instruct the second portable mediaplayer to pause playback of the second media file.
 31. Thenon-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 29, wherein thefirst control signal is configured to instruct the second portable mediaplayer to reduce play volume during playback of the second media file.32. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 29,further comprising: a fifth instruction code for accepting sensor dataindicative of a user's performance metrics; and a sixth instruction codefor generating media cues based on the sensor data.
 33. Thenon-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 29, furthercomprising a seventh instruction code for accepting a second controlsignal that influences operation of the first portable media player. 34.The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 33, whereinthe second control signal influences playback of the first media file.35. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 33,wherein the second control signal instructs the first portable mediaplayer to reduce play volume during playback of the first media file.36. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 29,wherein the playback of the second media file instructs a second user ofthe second portable media player to perform a second activity of thegroup activity.
 37. A master electronic device for coordinating a groupactivity, the master electronic device comprising: a mastercommunication module configured to communicate with a first membercommunication module disposed in a first member electronic device andwith a second member communication module disposed in a second memberelectronic device; and a controller configured to: generate asynchronization signal for synchronizing playback of a first activityfile by the first member electronic device and playback of a secondactivity file by the second member electronic device; and transmit thesynchronization signal to each of the first and second member electronicdevices via the master communication module, wherein: the playback ofthe first activity file instructs a first user of the first memberelectronic device to perform a first activity of the group activity; andthe playback of the second activity file instructs a second user of thesecond member electronic device to perform a second activity of thegroup activity, wherein the controller is further configured to: acceptfirst input data generated by the first user during the playback of thefirst activity file by the first member electronic device; accept secondinput data generated by the second user during the playback of thesecond activity file by the second member electronic device; andgenerate a first control signal for influencing the operation of thefirst member electronic device based on the second input data, whereinthe second input data comprises speech of the second user during theplayback of the second activity file.